Watch When We Go To War

When We Go To War is a six-part historical drama series set in New Zealand during the tumultuous years of World War I. The show follows the lives of several different families as they navigate the challenges and hardships of war, along with the personal struggles that arise from their own relationships and desires.

At the heart of the series is the story of the Smith family, headed by the stern yet loving patriarch and veteran of the Boer War, James Smith. His wife Isabelle is a strong and resilient woman who sacrifices much to keep their family together during the difficult wartime years. Their sons, Stanley and Eric, are vastly different in temperament -- the former a sensitive and artistic soul, the latter a rough and tumble rugby player with a heart of gold. The Smiths are joined by a host of other characters, including the wealthy and ambitious McMann family, the lower-class working families of the Morrisons and the Atkinsons, and the rebellious anti-war activist Mabel.

Together, these characters form an interwoven tapestry of life in New Zealand during the war, showing the impact that the conflict had both on the home front and on those who went overseas to fight. As the series progresses, viewers witness the development of technologies like the tank and the airplane, the growth of the women's suffrage movement, and the changing attitudes towards the war as the scale of the carnage becomes clear.

One of the strengths of When We Go To War is how it balances the horrors of war with the day-to-day concerns of its characters. While there are scenes of trench warfare and brutal combat, the show is just as interested in exploring the quieter moments -- a family dinner interrupted by the ringing of the telephone, a young couple stealing a kiss under the cover of darkness, or a group of soldiers bonding over a game of rugby. These scenes humanize the characters and make their struggles feel all the more poignant.

Another notable aspect of the show is its attention to historical detail. The costumes, sets, and props all feel authentic to the time period, and the writing draws on real-world events like the sinking of the Lusitania and the Easter Rising in Ireland. At times, the series can feel a bit didactic in its approach to history, with characters delivering speeches about the importance of standing up for one's beliefs or the dangers of blindly following authority. However, these moments are mostly effective and serve to underscore the show's themes of sacrifice, duty, and family.

Ultimately, When We Go To War is a stirring and well-crafted drama that offers a fascinating glimpse into a period of history that is often overlooked in popular culture. The ensemble cast is strong across the board, with standout performances from Ido Drent as the conflicted Stanley Smith and Sophia Huybens as the determined and principled Mabel. The show may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, but its commitment to its characters and to its historical setting makes it a worthwhile watch for fans of historical drama.

When We Go To War is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between April 26, 2015 and on MagellanTV; Magellan TV